15_Undercover at the Police Station
Onboarding at the Police Station
Jimmy didn't sleep well that night, waking up several times, worried that someone might break in and harm him or create a gas leak to suffocate him silently. The various scenarios from movies kept him up all night. The next morning, Jimmy got ready and headed to the police station. Some things are better clarified in advance, at least for safety. Upon arrival, the Chief wasn't there yet, so Jimmy went to Amy's office, finding her alone. "Amy, do you know how the Chief has arranged my assignment?" Jimmy asked quietly. "Ask him when he arrives; I haven't received further instructions," Amy replied with some helplessness. Jimmy shrugged, left Amy's office, and went to the break room to make coffee, waiting for the Chief to arrive. "Chief James, good morning." After a long wait, the Chief finally arrived, and Jimmy greeted him. "Hi, Jimmy, good morning, come with me." The Chief took Jimmy to his office.
"Jimmy, it will take a few more days to process your paperwork, about a week. Come back next week to collect your gear. Do you have any other questions? If not, you can go home today." "Chief, just one question. Am I taking the fall for someone or is there any danger involved, the kind of danger you know?" "Seems like you've thought a lot about it. Jimmy, I can assure you there's no danger; this is a very clean identity. You just happen to match this identity: your background, single, Asian descent, young, reliable. Are you reassured?" "So, is that person a federal agent? FBI? CIA?" "That's not for you to know, Jimmy. I warn you again, don't ask too much. Just know that you're very clean now." "What do I gain from this?" "A new life, a fresh start, a new career, no loans, no credit card debt, no criminal record, not even a traffic violation record." "One last question. Will others at the station know about me? I've worked with a few people before as an AP." "I'll take care of it. Any more questions?" "None, Chief. I'll head home now." Jimmy left the Chief's office.
Jimmy decided to accept this new identity. Firstly, it was definitely better than his previous one; not just the police identity, but more importantly, he didn't know if his old identity had risks. Secondly, it seemed the Chief had a lot to explain, indicating the matter was far from simple. The best way was to fully embrace this new identity, forget the past one, and be vigilant for any contact from agencies like the FBI or CIA. Back home, Jimmy withdrew his savings; his old identity would soon be unusable. Although not a large sum, it was nearly his entire current wealth. As for getting a new bank card, he decided to wait.
Jimmy submitted his resignation to Jon and spent the next few days at home, despite the urge to go out and distract himself; the uncertainty was unsettling. A week later, Amy called from the public phone in his apartment, notifying him to report to the station. Jimmy got ready and took a cab to the police station. As he entered, he saw Chief James waiting at the Chief's office. After a brief exchange, the Chief handed him a file.
"All procedures are complete. Here are your ID and contract copies. Go see Amy for your gear, then head home for today and return tomorrow at 7 am." "Alright, Chief. Goodbye." Jimmy went to Amy, received his police uniform, badge, and locker key. The duty belt and corresponding gear would be picked up from the armory. After storing his belongings, Jimmy returned home.
Although everything seemed straightforward, it was due to the pre-arranged procedures, including signing agreements and item lists. The armory must have been informed in advance, as Jimmy just needed to show up to collect everything. The next day, Jimmy arrived early at the station, changed into his familiar tan uniform, and felt more spirited with the county police badge. Not needing the full equipment, he left for the lobby, where familiar faces awaited him: three county officers - Noah Hobert, Mason Pittman Gilbert, Ellie Holly - along with the Chief and Amy.
"Congratulations, Jimmy. On behalf of the department, welcome aboard." The Chief led the applause, and Jimmy thanked them, feeling honored to join as a colleague. Task assignments began, with Noah tasked to familiarize Jimmy with the community through patrols. After the briefing, they dispersed. "Yes, sir!" "Jimmy, go get your gear. I'll wait for you in the parking lot." Noah, an experienced officer, already had his equipment on. Jimmy equipped himself and joined Noah in the car, driving to a secluded location.